Tampa Bay Buccaneers left tackle Tristan Wirfs underwent surgery earlier this month that could knock him out to start the season. Coach Todd Bowles, however, offered a more optimistic timeline for the star's return.

The Bucs painted a picture during the minicamps and OTAs of the offseason that Tristan Wirfs being on the sideline was just precautionary. Fast forward a few weeks, reports come out that Wirfs had undergone knee surgery and was expected to miss the start of the season for the team.

Tristan Wirfs should be anchoring the Bucs offensive line, bracing against edge rushers and keeping the pocket clean for Baker Mayfield. Instead, the All-Pro tackle hobbled across the practice field Thursday morning with a single crutch under his left arm and a heavy brace on his surgically-repaired right knee.